Structured literacy approaches for years 0-8

Structured literacy approaches provide a clear, systematic, and evidence-based method for teaching oral language, reading, writing, and comprehension. At Evaluation Associates, we support schools to embed structured literacy across Years 0-8, ensuring every learner develops the essential skills to succeed. 

We offer professional learning and development (PLD) tailored to support whole-school literacy development and targeted support for older learners (Years 7-8) who still require explicit, structured instruction. 

Our structured literacy approches PLD for years 0-8 

Our Years 0-8 structured literacy PLD helps schools develop strong literacy instruction across all year levels. We work alongside teachers and school leaders to: 

✔ Implement a structured, cumulative approach to literacy that builds on key skills at each stage. 
✔ Strengthen decoding, fluency, comprehension, and writing instruction using explicit, direct teaching. 
✔ Support learners who require additional scaffolding and targeted intervention. 
✔ Align structured literacy instruction with the Niho Taniwha framework and effective teaching practice. 
✔ Develop classroom strategies that support oral language, phonics, spelling, vocabulary, and morphology. 
✔ Ensure literacy teaching reflects the science of learning, so students develop strong foundations. 

Whether your school is just beginning or refining its structured literacy journey, our facilitators provide practical, hands-on guidance to support long-term success.  

Structured literacy approaches in years 7-8 

For many students, literacy challenges persist into intermediate years, making explicit structured literacy approaches critical. Our Years 7-8 support ensures older learners continue to build strong literacy skills to succeed in more complex reading and writing tasks. We help teachers: 

• embed structured literacy approaches into academic writing, comprehension, and vocabulary development. 

• use explicit teaching strategies to strengthen literacy skills for students who still need support. 

• recognise and respond to the unique literacy needs of adolescent learners. 

• align instruction with NCEA literacy requirements, helping students transition into secondary learning with confidence. 

Structured literacy approaches at this level ensures that students who may have gaps in decoding, fluency, and comprehension receive targeted instruction to develop essential literacy skills. Our facilitators work closely with schools to integrate structured literacy approaches into Years 7-8 programmes, ensuring students gain the skills needed for academic success. 

Why choose structured literacy approaches? 

Structured literacy approaches ensures every learner develops essential literacy skills, reducing the likelihood of students struggling later in their education. Our approach is: 

• explicit and direct – teaching literacy skills step by step, with no guesswork. 

• systematic and cumulative – building knowledge progressively to reinforce understanding. 

• evidence-based – grounded in the science of learning, supporting all learners, including those with diverse needs. 

• targeted and responsive – helping students at all levels, including those who require additional support. 

How to get started 

✅ Schools can apply for Ministry-funded PLD for structured literacy approaches support. 
✅ Our Years 7-8 support is open for new schools, and we encourage early registrations. 
✅ Want to learn more? Contact us today to explore how we can support your school.